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Today’s presentation is about teaching intermediate standard piano students.

Initially I will define what I expect of my intermediate piano students technically, following this I will look, briefly, at teaching strategies for Kuhlau Sonatina in F, opus 68 number 4.

This will consist of three points

1. A short analysis with observational details of selected points

2. Teaching strategies and practice tips

3. Final thoughts for performance

I will highlight a selection of issues that may arise and offer possible solutions. I will include some sample exercises that may be required.

Finally, I will summarise how I deal with parents who wish to complete consecutive exams without completing the recommended coursework in order to increase ability.

Early Intermediate Students are expected to have a balanced set of elementary skills before an intermediate programme is commenced.

• Complete a basic elementary series

• This could consist of 1 or more of the following elementary series of books

• 100 Best Short Classics Book 1. Peterson’s Publications Ltd

• Classics to Modern. Book 1 & 2. Yorktown Music Press

• More Romantic Pieces Book 1 & 2. ABRSM Publishing

• Romantic Sketchbook. Books 1 & 2 ABRSM Publishing

• Grand Solos for Piano. Alfred Publishing

• Piano Anthologies Grades 1 - 4 London College of Music

• Reading, counting, understanding and performing simple rhythms

• Fluent reading of pre grade 3 repertoire

• Playing with a good tone, articulation, dynamic contrast and phrase shaping at an appropriate tempo.

• Undertaking easier pieces by master composers.

• Performing all major & minor scales, arpeggios and broken chords over 2 octaves without evident tension.

• Ear training skill to grade 4 standard

• Sight reading skills to grade 4 standard

Observations & Analysis contribute to the success of a teaching studio. Once it has been ascertained a student is ready to start the intermediate programme the Sonatina by Kuhlau is a piece that may be chosen. This is a Sonatina that appeals to all ages and can serve as the third stepping stone to the first Sonata. The first two standards being Clementi Sonatina in C (Opus 36) and (attrib) Beethoven Sonatina in F (Anh. No. 2 in the Kinsky-Halm Catalogue) this should have been studied at the end of the Elementary section.